Queen Elizabeth Cake
Queen Elizabeth Cake is a moist, date-filled treat with a rich flavor profile complemented by walnuts and vanilla. Its tender crumb and sweet, fruity taste make it perfect for afternoon tea or casual gatherings, offering a nostalgic taste of classic baking with a delightful texture and hearty ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, shortening, egg, and vanilla.
- Add flour, baking powder, and soda to the mixture.
- Add the remaining ingredients: dates, boiling water, and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until the cake tests done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you don’t have walnuts, pecans or almonds work well as substitutes. Ensure your dates are pitted and chopped for even distribution in the batter. To enhance the moisture, you can also add a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream. This cake is a delightful addition to any gathering, similar to American recipes like Granny'S Lazy Daisy Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Queen Elizabeth Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings. You can also enjoy it with Easy Holiday Salad for a lovely balance of flavors at your next event.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Queen Elizabeth Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold. This cake also freezes well; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Queen Elizabeth Cake contains roughly 476 calories, with 7g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, feel free to substitute with pecans or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are chopped to maintain the texture of the cake.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. It should also spring back when gently pressed. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it after the 30-minute mark.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead! You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).